Bell, 44, who has photographed Hollywood royalty like Emily Blunt, Claire Danes, Kate Winslet, Johnny Depp and Daniel Craig, as well as soccer star David Beckham, will do the shoot at Clarence House after the service at the Chapel Royal in St. James's Palace.

Bell has had portraits published in major publications around the world, including PEOPLE, and some of his work is on display at the National Portrait Gallery in London, of which the Duchess of Cambridge is royal patron.

That connection was not the reason Bell was chosen, royal sources say. The award-winning photographer was picked from among several names given to the couple by their aides. "The Duke and Duchess met Jason and thought he was the right choice for the Christening," one source adds.

Bell, who was born in London, says in a statement: "I'm honored that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have asked me to photograph the christening of their son Prince George. I'm privileged to be recording this moment in history."